Wart Removal Methods (if Duct Tape doesn’t Work)

Duct tape treatment has been shown to remove warts as described in my previous article Warts: Can Duct Tape Remove Them? However, for some people this treatment may not completely remove the wart. If you continue to have warts, there are other therapies that can be explored which may be done at home or in a dermatologist’s office.

Warts are benign growths that appear on the skin due to exposure to one of the many types of HPV viruses. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and while commonly occur on the hands or feet, may also appear on the face. The following treatments are only intended for used on these epithelial skin type warts, not genital warts which different medications must be applied or prescribed by a doctor. Facial warts should also be examined by a doctor prior to these treatments as should any wart on a child.

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1. Salicyclic acid: Salicylic acid is the active ingredient in over the counter products such as Compound W or is impregnated in pads that can be applied over the wart such as Dr. Scholl's Clear Away, or DuoFilm. Salicylic acid works by dissolving the protein (keratin) in the thickened skin of the wart. The acid will need to be applied for many weeks and sinks in better if you apply it to skin that has first been washed then dried. Do not use salicylic acid on areas of sensitive skin and if skin irritation occurs stop using the product.

2. Over the counter freeze off: This method uses an aerosolized chemical that can drop down to minus 70 degrees F (office cryotherapy goes down to minus 320 degrees F) to freeze the skin of the wart. The exact mechanism of how it works is not clear though it is thought, similar to duct tape, it stimulates some immune response in the body. Compound W makes a freeze off product but several applications may be needed to see a result. Forum posters report that it can be painful to use but many felt it removed or made their warts smaller.

We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.